Work

New Method and Optimal Design of Ecological Cement–Soil Slope Protection for Hydropower Stations

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Steep rock slopes in mountainous regions present the coupled challenges of mechanical instability and ecological degradation, yet existing protection methods often focus on structural reinforcement alone, neglecting ecological recovery. To bridge this gap, this study develops an integrated ecological cement–soil (ECS) slope protection system that couples a porous cement–soil layer, galvanized mesh, and anchors to achieve simultaneous mechanical stabilization and vegetation restoration. Field experiments and finite-element simulations were conducted to evaluate the deformation control, strength development, and stress transfer mechanism of the ECS system. Results demonstrate that the ECS layer effectively limited surface displacement (<2 mm) while maintaining sufficient porosity (0.3–0.5 MPa strength) to support plant growth. This work provides a generalizable framework for eco-friendly slope protection, offering new insights for the sustainable rehabilitation of steep rocky terrains beyond the studied project site.

Source: Applied Sciences

DOI: 10.3390/app152312380

Authors: Xiaoyan Zhou, Weihao Zhang, Jiangpeng Xu, Xin Liu, Hongqiang Chu

Institutions: China Yangtze Power Co., Ltd. (China), Hohai University

Language: English

Topic: Geotechnical Engineering and Soil Stabilization

Subfield: Civil and Structural Engineering

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Life on land, Industry, innovation and infrastructure

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,896